Monday, January 23, 2012

I have been hard at working putting the finishing touches on my next online class- Sketchbook Delight Part 2! I really can't believe the feedback and amazing amount of participation that Sketchbook Delight has received and after many requests I have put together a sequel full of advanced sketching and drawing techniques, projects, drawing prompts, new concepts and lots of INSPIRATION!

All of my classes have unlimited access- once you register you can create and access at any time and work at your own pace. Whenever I "release" a new class- I always structure it in a five week format. Many people who want to work in this format, as the lessons are posted each week, enjoy working at this pace but once the five weeks are up there is unlimited time to access everything.

I have found that some people prefer to work along with the five week format when I release the class while others will wait months until they have the time, money and the schedule to register for the class. Either way works- just know that once you are in- there is no deadline or pressure to create.

The class goes live February 1st and tomorrow I will be giving you another preview and will be hosting a giveaway for 3 free spots in the class! So check back tomorrow for a chance to win!

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

I am happy to report that the changes I have made to my diet over the past 3 months since Lucy was born have helped tremendously with controlling her reflux. I have cut out all dairy (and been eating vegan as much as possible), no spicy and acidic foods and gotten rid of most wheat (gluten)! Talk about discipline folks!!! Something in these changes have not only made a difference for Lucy's tummy but have made me feel really amazing both inside and out!

But boy do I miss creamy cheesy dishes! So I set out scouring the internet (thanks to many of you for the links!!) to get inspired to create some of my own recipes to somehow recreate or at least come close to some dishes that would satisfy my cravings. Let me just say nothing will come close or taste like real cheesy goodness- at least to me- but I am so happy that I can enjoy something a healthy and keep my dear daughter comfortable.

After doing tons of research and reading lots of recipes here is my take on a quick vegan and gluten free mac & cheese.

There are all sorts of gluten free pastas out there- Whole Foods and Trader Joes seem to have the a bigger selection but I have also been able to find some options at the regular grocery store too.

Boil pasta and drain water leaving just a little pasta water in with the noodles and return pan to burner set to low heat.

Add the pureed squash to the noodles (you can buy this frozen or puree your own).

Add grated vegan cheese (this is actually a really great dairy free option- it melts and tastes almost like real cheese!)

Mix in the salt, pepper, spices and mustard.

Optional- add a dollop of vegan butter or margarine.

Keep mixing everything on low until the cheese is melted.

The result is a quick creamy pasta dish that tastes like light version of mac & cheese and is perfect for adding your favorite vegis, meatless sausage or even the real thing.

Monday, January 16, 2012

Friday, January 13, 2012

I lOVE me some some fashion! In fact the only thing I miss about working a day job is getting dressed up everyday in all sorts of cute outfits. So I decided that I will be dedicating Fridays to all things fashion! From my own outfits and clothing, to trends, inspiration and DIY projects- Fridays are all about fashion! Today it is all about the maxi skirt- one of my "go to" items. I own about 15 different maxi skirts because they are SO versatile and just about the most comfy thing I can thinking of wearing!